Selective cuts, carried out every 8 to 10 years, are being made in the Saint-Pierre wood in Poitiers. This method aims to gradually remove certain trees to promote the growth of others and maintain forest balance.
This sustainable management document, developed jointly by the City of Poitiers and the ONF, was approved by decree from the Regional Prefect on August 19, 2024. It covers an area of 170.38 hectares for the period from 2024 to 2043.
The implemented forest management is irregular, promoting a mosaic of trees with different sizes, ages, and species coexisting in the same plot. These interventions aim to thin the forest, improve wood quality, preserve landscape balance, and maintain continuous forest cover.
The process also encourages light penetration, allowing young trees to regrow. It also provides an opportunity to remove certain decaying trees near paths to ensure safety while preserving the wooded appearance appreciated by the public.
Certain plots will therefore be subject to reasoned wood harvesting in the coming years. Plots 2 and 4 are concerned by the work starting in September 2026. Signage will mark dangerous areas (falling trees, vehicle circulation...) and prohibit entry to ensure public safety.
The cut wood will be temporarily stored on the sides of the paths. It is important not to climb on them! The intervention areas for forestry equipment will be regularly updated and displayed in the forest on information panels.
